Financial Literacy
Millions of Americans face financial hardship every day and may even be only one paycheck away from homelessness. We offer programs that can help individuals and families increase their financial assets, so they can be better prepared for the future. Our Making Sense of Money Financial Literacy Initiative and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program help to ensure individuals and families are financially stable and prepared for their future.
Making Sense of Money Financial Literacy Initiative
The Making Sense of Money program provides opportunities for individuals and families to gain knowledge, skills and assets to further expand economic opportunities. Our programs is comprised of three focus area: workplace partnerships, community-based initiatives and services for graduates.
- Workplace Partnerships – We collaborate with local employers to offer our Basic Budgeting Series and other financial literacy workshops on site at places of employment. To get more information contact Kelly Paparella at kpaparella@cpozarks.org.
- Community-Based Initiatives – We offer a Basic Budgeting Series, Extra Credit Time, and Ask the Expert events. Register for any of these classes by clicking the REGISTER button below.
- Graduate Services – These services provide continuing education for those that have completed the Basic Budgeting Series. Services can include preferred appointment times at one of our free VITA clinics, financial coaching and access to a free checking and/or savings account.
Register for Basic Budgeting Series
For more information about our Making Sense of Money Financial Literacy Initiative, contact Kelly Paparella at kpaparella@cpozarks.org.
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program - Free Tax Services
The Internal Revenue Service’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) provides income tax preparation to those who cannot afford tax preparation fees. Trained volunteers prepare basic tax returns for taxpayers with limited incomes of $65,000 or less, older adults, and taxpayers who speak English as a second language (ESL).
CALL (417) 720-2000 TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT.
We are always looking for VITA volunteers! We provide free training to become an IRS-certified preparer. Contact Michele Garner at mgarner@cpozarks.org.
if you are interested in volunteering or to learn more about the VITA program.
DO IT YOURSELF FOR FREE!
If you made less than $60,000 last year, file your Federal and State taxes for FREE at www.myfreetaxes.com.